Alexander Mackenzie
Biography
Sir Alexander Mackenzie (1764–1820) was a Scottish-Canadian explorer and fur trader who became the first European to complete a transcontinental crossing of North America north of Mexico. Born in Stornoway, Scotland, he emigrated to Canada and joined the fur trade. In 1789 he traveled the river now named after him to the Arctic Ocean. In 1793 he crossed the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific coast, preceding Lewis and Clark by twelve years. His published journals document these extraordinary journeys through largely unmapped wilderness.
Common themes in Alexander Mackenzie's work
Canadian exploration
A recurring theme throughout Alexander Mackenzie's writing.
Transcontinental crossing
A recurring theme throughout Alexander Mackenzie's writing.
Arctic journey
A recurring theme throughout Alexander Mackenzie's writing.
Fur trade
A recurring theme throughout Alexander Mackenzie's writing.
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Why Alexander Mackenzie is still read today
Mackenzie’s journals record the first European crossing of North America north of Mexico, preceding Lewis and Clark by over a decade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Alexander Mackenzie?
Sir Alexander Mackenzie (1764–1820) was the first European to cross North America north of Mexico, preceding Lewis and Clark by 12 years.
What are his Journals about?
His extraordinary journeys to the Arctic Ocean (1789) and across the Rockies to the Pacific (1793). Available free on TextStack.
Did he precede Lewis and Clark?
Yes, his Pacific crossing in 1793 predated their expedition by twelve years.
Where can I read Mackenzie free?
TextStack offers Mackenzie’s Journals to read free online.
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